Waste is a fire safety hazard, insurer claims
September 4, 2008
Over ten per cent of businesses are incurring a fire safety risk from the way they store their waste, an insurer claims.
Norwich Union Risk Services (NURS) warns waste or recycling packed near to a business property presents a serious fire risk.
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, combustible waste must be taken into account as part of a company's risk assessment.
Martin Hartley, a property risk specialist for NURS, says commercial waste stored outside is an "arson attack waiting to happen".
He recommended businesses to see if they can secure a waste site at a distance from their premises and to make sure it is disposed of on a regular basis.
Wooden pallets being stored next to buildings are another hazard, he adds.
In addition, the storage of wooden pallets near to, or up against, buildings increased the chances of a major fire taking place.
He claims arson now accounts for nearly half of commercial fires.
According to the London Fire Brigade, the cost of damages incurred by fire amounts to millions of pounds, from which businesses rarely recover.
It recommends companies undergo fire safety training courses to minimise risk.
Norwich Union Risk Services (NURS) warns waste or recycling packed near to a business property presents a serious fire risk.
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, combustible waste must be taken into account as part of a company's risk assessment.
Martin Hartley, a property risk specialist for NURS, says commercial waste stored outside is an "arson attack waiting to happen".
He recommended businesses to see if they can secure a waste site at a distance from their premises and to make sure it is disposed of on a regular basis.
Wooden pallets being stored next to buildings are another hazard, he adds.
In addition, the storage of wooden pallets near to, or up against, buildings increased the chances of a major fire taking place.
He claims arson now accounts for nearly half of commercial fires.
According to the London Fire Brigade, the cost of damages incurred by fire amounts to millions of pounds, from which businesses rarely recover.
It recommends companies undergo fire safety training courses to minimise risk.
More Fire Safety news:
Fire safety training 'is crucial' - December 16, 2008Failure to provide safety training 'false economy' - December 11, 2008
Third of firms 'have no fire safety risk assessment' - December 10, 2008
Fire risk management for SouthGate HSE investigation - October 2, 2008
Health and safety fine issued over hazardous materials - September 2, 2008
